Salary expectations in law are becoming increasingly complex, and the differences between firms are more striking than ever.
Solicitor salaries in 2025 – what’s really happening at NQ and beyond.
Even at the same PQE, pay can vary dramatically. This is particularly true at NQ level, where the picture across East Anglia alone ranges from starting salaries of £38,000 up to £100,000, depending on the firm. While the typical bracket sits around £40–50k, some London mid-sized firms are now paying closer to £60k – without joining the big players in the race to headline-grabbing figures!
This growing disparity shows why it’s important to know where you stand. PQE alone is no longer the marker of earning potential. Firm size, culture, benefits, and working patterns now play just as significant a role.
With the recent Mazur case the situation for CILEX has become less clear. If you haven’t heard about this it is the ruling that practice rights are required to conduct litigation (rather than support litigation) as CILEX, in addition to the standard qualification. Historically salaries for CILEX are slightly lower than solicitors, although in truth if you are CILEX qualified you offer more hands on experience than a similar PQE solicitor. Some firms I have spoken to are looking at getting the enhanced qualifications for any CILEX where there is one to be taken. But there is still a lot of discussion about what the finding means and even some around whether it will be left to stand for the long term, so its very much watch this space to see the ultimate impact and any impact that may then reflect on salaries. I can say personally that I always treat CILEX as equal to a solicitor qualification.
Ultimately, once you are more than 5 years PQE, in the regions it is common for businesses development to play a key role in your ‘value’ to a firm. In fact, once you are senior, a following is what will be rewarded with top pay. If you move to a consultancy (fee share) role it can lead to total freedom and autonomy!
Meanwhile, hybrid working has become standard across much of the profession, with two days at home a week increasingly common. Many lawyers are prepared to travel further afield for the right role when the commute is only occasional, opening up even more variation in packages.
If you’d like clarity on where you stand, or confidence in your next move, I’d be delighted to help. Together we can:
• Explore opportunities with firms that align with your aspirations and lifestyle
• Or, in a focused Power Hour, take stock of your career to date, analyse your options, and create a roadmap for progression – whether within your current firm or beyond
With the market shifting so quickly, it pays to know your worth and to be proactive about your career. I’d love to support you in navigating that with confidence.
